How to Make the Byzantine Matrix Jump Ring Chain

Matrix Chain - The Byzantine Matrix chain is a variant on the traditional Byzantine weave. It is built by creating segments of chain and linking them together. The project as shown uses (250) 18ga 3.75mm ID Jump rings; (50) 16ga 5.5mm ID jump rings. Mixing metals is an interesting way to highlight this project.

Close a large (16ga 5.5mm ID) jump ring [A]. I recommend attaching a piece of scrap wire to help hold on to your project.

STEP 2: Add a Small Ring

Attach a new small (18ga 3.75mm ID) jump ring [B] to jump ring [A].

STEP 3: Add a Second Ring

Attach a second small jump ring [b] to jump ring [A].

STEP 4: Add New Ring C

Add a new small jump ring [C] and attach it to both rings [B & b]

STEP 5: Add New Ring c

Add a new small jump ring [c] and attach it to both rings [B & b]

STEP 6: The Grip

Hold the starter ring [A] by the wire and let the jump rings hang. Use your thumb and finger so that you pinch [A & Bb]. This isolation technique will make it easier to build your chain. If you wiggle your hand, only pair [Cc] should move back and forth.

STEP 7: The Flip

Turn your hand so that you are pointing the starter at the ceiling. ([Cc] is now on top). Separate rings [C] and [c] to open like the petals of a flower.

STEP 8: The Separation

Using an Awl or pointed tool, separate the rings [B] and [b]. If you lose your place start over (step 6: the grip) and focus on pinching rings [A] [Bb] to keep the rings from moving too much.

STEP 9: The Push

Push the awl into the chain. You are picking up the inside of rings [C] and [c] and pulling the up between [B] and [b].

STEP 10: The Push... cont'd

Should look like this.

STEP 11: The Hold

Grasp the chain firmly. Remove the Awl, maintain a firm pressure. This will keep the chain from collapsing while you pickup and add your next set of jump rings.

STEP 12: Add New Ring

Open an new small jump ring and insert in the space occupied by the AWL.

STEP 13: Close the Ring, Add a Second Ring

Close the added ring and add a new small ring beside it.

STEP 14: Half way There

The last two jump rings become the new A. (Review Step 1)

STEP 15: Add Two Rings

Add two new rings to the end of the chain.

STEP 16: Add New Pair

Add two new rings to the end of the chain.

STEP 17: Grip, Flip, Divide and Hold

Grip and Flip the chain. Insert an Awl just as in Steps 6 thru 11.

STEP 18: Insert new Large Jump Ring

Remove the Awl and Insert a new large jump ring in its place. Segment Complete!

STEP 19: Make Segments

Repeat the steps to make several of these byzantine segments. A bracelet requires between 18 and 22 segments.

STEP 20: Link Segments

Open the large jump ring C at one end of the chain segment C - D. Insert the large ring thru the two jump rings (marked in blue) on the side of segment A - B.

STEP 21: Looks like This.

Your chain should look like this.

STEP 22: Link the other End

Open the Large jump ring B at the end of segment A - B. Attach it to the rings on the side of segment C - D.

STEP 23: Keep Adding Segments

Open the end of a new segment and attach it the the middle of the existing chain.

STEP 24: Connect the Other End

Complete the other connection end of the segment.

STEP 25: Balance the End

When you have completed the desired length of your chain, add a Large jump ring to each end.

STEP 26: Both Ends should look like this.

Once you have the ends squared off, you can add a clasp.

STEP 27: Add a Clasp

Add a small jump ring and link the two large jump rings at the end. Using a second jump ring attach your clasp. Repeat on each end.